Slain Samoan MP's body likely released today

The body of slain Samoan MP Su'a Antonio is likely to be released by police today for an emotional return to Samoa.

Mr Antonio, 54, a vocal member of Samoa's main opposition party, was killed in a fight in south Auckland late on Wednesday night. A 47-year-old man has been charged with his murder.

Police said today the body was being held in the police morgue but it was likely to be released today.

Police spokeswoman, Angeline Barlow said police knew how he died and were not looking for anyone else.

There was no suggestion Mr Antonio was involved in "anything dodgy".

She said it was likely to be a very large funeral in Samoa.

Mr Antonio, who was on a private visit to New Zealand, was from Aleipata village in Upolu, was thought to have known his alleged killer.

Mr Antonio had been an outspoken member of Parliament in his 16 years in opposition and his killing had badly shocked Samoa, said Papalii Peo, the chief editor of the Samoan Times in Auckland.

"This is one of the great politicians in the opposition party.

"He is one of the top politicians in that party."

He said the Opposition Party would miss him a lot and there was likely to be a highly emotional return of his body and funeral.

"Many people are shocked and so sad and miss this man."

Samoan Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi had praised Mr Antonio and offered his condolences, he said.

"He also mentioned this man is a great man in politics," Mr Peo said.

Details arrangements to get Mr Antionmo's body back to Samoa had yet to be finalised, said the Western Samoan Consulate General today.

- NZPA